The Science of Autumn

The Science of Autumn – Step Up to Writing Resource

Bring fall into your classroom with this engaging Step Up to Writing–aligned resource that blends science, writing, and seasonal themes! Perfect for fall literacy centers, science extensions, or co-curricular writing lessons, this pack helps students strengthen paragraph writing skills while exploring the fascinating changes of autumn.

✨ What’s Inside:

• 5 Fall & Science-Themed Passages with ready-to-highlight Step Up to Writing paragraphs

  • 🍬 Candy Corn Chemistry
    Discover the sweet science behind everyone’s favorite fall treat! Students explore mixtures, solutions, and the chemistry that gives candy corn its classic layers and color.

    🤧 Cold & Flu Season
    Why do more people catch colds in the fall? This passage helps students connect changes in weather and habits to how germs spread — with clear cause-and-effect practice.

    🐾 How Pets Adjust to Fall Weather
    From shedding to snuggling, students learn how animals adapt to shorter days and cooler temperatures — blending reading comprehension with real-world science.

    🍂 The Sleepy Season
    Ever feel extra tired when autumn rolls around? This passage uncovers how daylight changes affect sleep patterns and energy, making science personally relatable.

    🍎 Oxidation in Apples
    Watch science in action! Students explore the chemical reaction that turns apple slices brown and use Step Up to Writing color coding to explain the process clearly.

• Highlighting Guides & Anchor Charts for the parts of a paragraph (topic sentence, details, conclusion)
• Color & B&W Copies for flexible printing
• Text-Based Post-Reading Writing Activity with brainstorming, outline, drafting, and editing steps
• Model Paragraph & “Noticing Nature” Prompt for student support
• Transition Word Practice to build stronger writing flow
• Answer Keys Included for easy grading or self-check

Grade Level Alignment:

• Grades 3–5 → Core target for building expository and informational writing skills.
• Grade 2 → Enrichment for advanced learners who are ready for structured writing practice.
• Grades 6–7 → Ideal for remediation, intervention, or test-prep support for students needing a clear, scaffolded approach.

Why Teachers Love It:

• Aligned with Step Up to Writing strategies and Common Core ELA/Science standards
• Supports cross-curricular learning (ELA + Science)
• Builds student confidence in informational & expository writing
• Perfect for independent practice, small groups, test prep (AIR, PARCC, PSSA, TEKS), or whole-class lessons

🔗 Resource Type: Informative Writing, Paragraph Practice

Grades: 3–5
Standards Alignment: CCSS W.3.2, W.4.2, W.5.2 (Informative/Explanatory Writing)

⭐Whether you’re looking for a seasonal science connection or a fresh way to reinforce writing skills, this autumn resource provides everything you need to engage your students this fall.

✍️Looking for more Step Up to Writing-Inspired Resources? Check out: From Paragraph to Essay Anchor Charts, Rubrics, and More!

Follow Learning Between the Lines for more ready-to-use literacy and cross-curricular resources.